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Summer is almost upon us, and if your toddler is anything like mine, snacks are everything—especially out on adventures. Summer requires these tiny munchies for survival—whether it’s splashing around or hanging out in the pool, cruising the balance bike around the neighborhood, or doing a family hike (for mom’s sanity, let’s be honest about it). That’s why this post is packed with no sugar added snacks for kids—snack ideas for toddlers and babies, plus super easy recipes we love making together.
The ingredient-conscious mom in me has become hyper-aware of how much sugar sneaks into the most so-called “kid-friendly” snacks. But at the same time, those snacks aren’t gonna cut it for our kids when it comes to staying powered throughout the day without the sugar crash. Hence why I’m all about no sugar added snacks for kids—they’re healthy, satisfying, toddler-approved, and ideal for busy summer days.
Want more ways to keep your family thriving this season? Check out my Summer Bucket List for Families packed with outdoor fun for all ages.
1. No Sugar Added Popsicles and Smoothies
Nothing quite says summer snacks for kids like a nice cold popsicle. Making your own? Total mom points.
Here is our favorite no-sugar-added recipe that also doubles as a smoothie recipe:
- 1 banana
- 1 cup frozen berries or fresh fruit
- Just a splash of unsweetened almond or oat milk
- Optional: a scoop of chia seeds or Greek yogurt for extra protein
Simply blend, pour into popsicle molds, and freeze. That’s it! If you pour the same mix into a cup, you’ve got a smoothie ready to go.
This is one of those no sugar added snacks for kids that’s healthy enough for breakfast and fun enough for playdates. Moreover, my daughter loves to help by pouring the mix and choosing her favorite molds.
Another refreshing idea we love? Agua fresca! Blend together water, ice, and any fruit you have on hand—watermelon, berries, mango. It’s incredibly simple, healthy, and hydrating for a hot summer day.
2. Fruity Snacks Without the Junk
Is your child a fan of chewy, fruity snacks (don’t they all)? Instead of reaching for sugary options, pass on the added sugar versions and get these cleaner alternatives instead—these are a huge hit in our house and perfect for toddlers and big kids alike.
- BOB SNAIL Healthy Snacks Variety Pack — Made from 100% real fruit puree. No sugar, no junk. Just simple ingredients and a super fun spiral shape.
- The FROOT Thief Real Fruit Snack Whips — Soft texture for little ones, and once more—100% real fruit.
These are fantastic no sugar added snacks for kids—sweet, portable, and fun, without the sugar crash.
3. Frozen Fruit Pops and Store-Bought Favorites
Need something quick to toss into the freezer? Then these no sugar added snacks for kids are store-bought lifesavers when time is short:
- DeeBee’s Organics Classic SuperFruit Freezie Pops — Made with organic fruit puree, no added sugar, and no artificial flavors. Ships directly to your home and shelf-stable until frozen. Great for travel!
- GoodPop Organic Freezer Pops — 100% juice, no added sugar, and flavors that kids (and mamas) love: Cherry Limeade and Grape.
Perfect for hot days, these no sugar snacks feel like treats but keep your summer sugar-free.
4. Dried Mango: A Sweet Delight That’s Naturally Travel-Friendly
Dried mango is one of those no sugar added snacks for kids that checks all the boxes: sweet, chewy, filling, and mess-free. It’s definitely one of our favorites to stash in the car or take hiking.
Just read the ingredients carefully! Many brands sneak in added sugar. So only buy packages with “mango” as the ingredient. That’s your sign of a true no sugar snack.
Pair with a handful of nuts or seeds, and you’ve got a balanced snack for mama too.
Speaking of healthy changes, if you’re looking for a reset, check out my journey with Whole30 for Moms—a realistic and energizing approach to mindful eating.
5. Fresh Fruit & Veggie Snacks – The Original No Sugar Heroes
As far as jewel-like little snack packets go for school, summer camp, or out-and-about forays, the simplest often wins. Therefore, when fresh fruit and vegetables are in season, they top our no sugar added snacks for kids rotation.
Toddler favorites:
- Watermelon wedges
- Mini cucumbers
- Apple slices + peanut butter
- Bell pepper strips
- Halved grapes and cherry tomatoes
- Berries of all kinds
Remember, presentation matters for little ones! Try a muffin tin, cookie cutters to shape melons, or let them skewer fruit kabobs on toddler-safe toothpicks.
Looking for more seasonal fun? Don’t miss my list of Spring Activities for Outdoor Kids to help your child connect with nature.
6. DIY Sparkling Water – A Fizzy, Fun Soda Swap
When it’s hot, hydration is a snack—especially when it sparkles. We use our SodaStream Terra Sparkling Water Maker almost daily in the summer to make fizzy drinks that feel fun and festive. Just carbonated water + fruit = mama-approved refreshment.
Drop in:
- Smushed berries
- Cucumber + mint
- Basil from the garden
- A splash of 100% juice (we love cranberry + cherry)
It’s a great soda alternative for older kids and a healthy hydration habit for toddlers—definitely another win in the no sugar added snacks for kids category.
7. Mini Beef Sticks for Protein on the Go
These are our top protein-packed, no sugar added nacks for kids when we want something filling:
- Country Archer Mini Beef Jerky Sticks – Grass-fed, toddler-sized, and individually wrapped.
- Chomps Snack Size Grass-Fed and Finished Original Beef Jerky Snack Sticks – Whole30-friendly, clean ingredients, and travel-ready.
They truly change the course of snack time when we’re out past lunchtime or need something satisfying. Pair with fruit for a perfect combo.
Snack Time Tips for Busy Moms
Want snack success? Here are a few tips that work wonders for us:
- Prep Ahead: Chop fruit and veggies at the start of the week—it’s way easier to grab healthy options.
- Pack Smart: Use toddler-friendly snack containers—less mess, more independence.
- Let Them Help: Let your little one take part in making snacks; they’re more likely to eat them.
- Mix It Up: Rotate your snack list weekly to keep things interesting (because yes, one day they’ll suddenly hate bananas).
While you’re building these snack-time habits, consider diving into something bigger with your family—like the 1000 Hours Outside Challenge. It’s a wonderful way to connect over healthy routines.
Final Thoughts: No Sugar Doesn’t Have to Mean No Fun
I see you, mama, and I get it—navigating the world of snacks, no sugar recipes, and toddler moods is real. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by everything on the shelves (and sneaky sugars). But simple, nourishing snacks can be fun and don’t need to be Instagram-perfect to make an impact.
These no sugar added snacks for kids help prevent crashes, support healthy habits, and bring a little ease to your summer.
Do you have a favorite summertime no sugar treat? Drop it in the comments below—I’d love to add it to our growing list!